Regent University School of Law Ranks Highest Overall Bar Passage Rate in Virginia

On Friday, October 27, Virginia’s Board of Bar Examiners (VBBE) released the bar examination passage rates for Virginia law schools. Regent University School of Law (LAW) alumni who took the Virginia bar examination in July 2017 earned a 94.59 percent overall passage rate – the highest in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and more than 23 percent above the statewide average.

“To finish first in the state like Virginia is an incredible accomplishment,” said LAW Dean Michael Hernandez. “I’m proud of our graduates, and I’m proud of our faculty that rallied around and supported our graduates. This is a validation of our program and I’m really thrilled with the results.”

Regent LAW alumni who took the test ranked over other law schools in the state including University of Virginia (92.59 percent), George Mason University (79.37 percent), University of Richmond (79.37 percent) and Washington and Lee University (84.85 percent).

Regent LAW’s bar passage in Virginia for first-time test takers ranked second in the state, with a passing rate of 93.94 percent – just under .30 percent below the highest-raking law school in the state.

Hernandez attributes the success to the “team effort” of Regent LAW. He believes these results are the fruition of not only the faculty and the rigorous academic programming that prepares students for a legal career beyond law school, but for the camaraderie amongst the LAW community – what he refers to as “iron sharpening iron.”

Students who complete the law program will develop analytical, writing and practical legal skills along with the commitment to the Christian faith and a high standard of academic excellence.

“It’s a microcosm of the body of Christ,” said Hernandez, who explained he sees Regent LAW as a “lifelong partnership.” And of that partnership is Regent LAW’s Office of Career & Alumni Services.

“We are so pleased with these results. Our graduates are talented, diligent, and poised to serve as outstanding attorneys,” said Judge Patricia West, associate dean of Career & Alumni Services. “We are excited about the strong placements members of the Class of 2017 have already obtained and look forward to continuing to support these incredible graduates in their job placement efforts.”